Name: Spinach and Cheese Pastry Rings
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed; 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained; 1/2 cup cream cheese; 1/2 cup feta cheese or ricotta; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Pinch of nutmeg (optional); 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk or water (for egg wash); Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping); 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

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Spinach and Cheese Pastry Rings are a savory baked delight made from golden, flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy mixture of spinach and cheese. Formed into attractive rings, these pastries are perfect as appetizers, brunch items, or light vegetarian meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pastry rings are elegant yet simple to prepare. They offer a delicious combination of buttery pastry, rich cheese, and tender spinach. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a family snack, these pastries are visually appealing and full of comforting flavor. Plus, they reheat well, making them ideal for advance preparation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Puff pastry sheets, thawed
Frozen spinach, thawed and drained
Cream cheese
Feta cheese or ricotta
Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Egg
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Salt and black pepper
Nutmeg (optional)
Egg wash (egg yolk mixed with a little milk or water)
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in a little oil until soft. Add drained spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat.
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, feta (or ricotta), shredded cheese, egg, sautéed spinach mixture, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Roll out puff pastry sheets and cut into wide strips or rectangles.
Spoon filling along one edge of each strip, roll to enclose, and shape into a ring. Pinch ends together to seal.
Place on prepared baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with seeds if using.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6–8 pastry rings. Preparation time is about 25 minutes, and baking takes around 25 minutes, totaling 50 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.
Use different cheeses such as gouda, gruyère, or blue cheese.
Make mini versions for party platters.
Include herbs like dill, basil, or thyme for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or until warmed and crisp.
They can also be frozen after baking; thaw and reheat in the oven for best results.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, cook it down to remove excess moisture before mixing into the filling.

What kind of pastry should I use?

Store-bought puff pastry works best for this recipe due to its light and flaky texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead?

Yes, you can assemble the rings and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use phyllo dough instead?

Phyllo dough can be used, but it will result in a more delicate, layered texture and will require more careful handling.

Are these pastries suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, just ensure the cheeses used are vegetarian-friendly.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

Serve with a side of marinara, tzatziki, or a garlic yogurt dip.

Can I use low-fat cheeses?

Yes, but the filling may be slightly less creamy.

How do I keep the pastry crispy?

Avoid overfilling and make sure spinach is well-drained. Reheat in the oven, not the microwave.

Can I bake them in a muffin tin?

Yes, for individual servings, shape them into smaller coils and bake in greased muffin cups.

How do I prevent the rings from opening during baking?

Seal the ends firmly and chill the rings before baking to help maintain shape.

Conclusion

Spinach and Cheese Pastry Rings are a delightful combination of creamy filling and crisp pastry, offering both elegance and comfort. Versatile and easy to customize, they are ideal for entertaining or casual dining, and they’ll quickly become a favorite go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Spinach and Cheese Pastry Rings

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Spinach and Cheese Pastry Rings are savory, golden-baked treats filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, shaped into attractive rings perfect for brunch, parties, or a light vegetarian meal.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6–8 pastry rings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes. Let cool.
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, feta or ricotta, shredded cheese, egg, spinach mixture, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Stir until smooth.
Roll out puff pastry and cut into wide strips or rectangles.
Spoon filling along one side of each strip, roll to enclose, and shape into a ring. Pinch ends together to seal.
Place rings on the baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with seeds if desired.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cool slightly before serving.